Last Call to Enter Drawing for 2012 Ford Fusion Hybrid as Part of Effort to Raise

Awareness about Air Pollution

AUSTIN—Time is running out for Texans to enter the Drive Clean Across Texas sweepstakes for a chance to win a Ford Fusion Hybrid. Deadline for online entries is September 23, 2012.

The hybrid car giveaway is part of the Texas Department of Transportation’s (TxDOT) annual clean air campaign encouraging drivers to help reduce air pollution by keeping vehicles maintained. Replacing dirty air and fuel filters, getting regular oil changes, carpooling, and driving low-emission vehicles are a few of the recommended steps to driving cleaner.

Earlier this year, the Dallas Cowboys donated a hybrid car in support of the campaign’s recommendation for driving fuel-efficient vehicles. In addition, three sweepstakes runners-up will each win a pair of tickets to a 2012 Cowboys home game. The grand-prize winner will be awarded the keys to the Ford Fusion Hybrid at the Dallas Cowboys’ Valley Ranch headquarters in a ceremony later this fall.

Texas drivers must be as least 18 years old to enter the sweepstakes. Applications may be submitted at www.DriveCleanAcrossTexas.org no later than 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, September 23, 2012. While online, contestants will also be asked to make a pledge to do their part for cleaner air.

“Though the summer driving season is winding down, we would like motorists to make driving clean a year-round habit,” said Carlos Swonke, TxDOT’s Environmental Affairs director. “When you keep your car or truck in good condition, it releases fewer air pollutants and uses less fuel. That’s good for the air and good for your wallet.”

Reducing the number of vehicles on the road, especially during peak periods (rush hour,) means less traffic and less exhaust.

Combine your errands into only one trip.

Carpool, vanpool, or ride public transit.

Work an alternative/flex-time work schedule so you don't have to drive in congestion.

Take a bicycle or walk when at all possible; it is good for your health, too.

3) Drive a "cleaner" vehicle

When researching your next car or truck, consider a fuel-efficient or low-emission vehicle such as a hybrid-electric model. For more information, visit www.fueleconomy.gov. Or, enter for a chance to win a new hybrid vehicle at www.DriveCleanAcrossTexas.org.

4) Drive the speed limit

At high speeds you'll burn more fuel per mile driven, thus creating more harmful pollutants in the air. It is safer to drive the speed limit, too.

Accelerate and decelerate slowly and smoothly.

Anticipate stops and coast to a stop gradually.

5) Reduce idling

Idling wastes gas. In fact, turning off the car and starting it again uses less gas than idling for thirty seconds or more.

Skip the drive-thru at the bank or fast food restaurant in favor of a quick trip inside.

Anticipate delays and take an alternative route to avoid stop-and-go or stand-still traffic, or travel earlier or later when congestion is less.

After starting the engine, do not warm it up; modern engines do not need it.

The Texas Department of Transportation is responsible for maintaining 80,000 miles of road and for supporting aviation, rail, and public transportation across the state. TxDOT and its 11,000 employees are committed to working with others to provide safe and reliable transportation solutions for Texas by maintaining a safe system, addressing congestion, connecting Texas communities, and being a Best in Class state agency. Find out more at www.txdot.gov. Fan us on Facebook www.facebook.com/txdot. Follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/txdot.